VOLUNTEERS say they are confident that a community library in New Cross will be a success.
People behind New Cross People’s Library have been given a six-week licence by Lewisham Council to prove they can make a go of it.
The area has been left without a facility since the original library was closed by the council to cut costs, despite a bid by Eco Computer Systems, which now runs four others in the borough.
Now a group, backed by the Bold Vision charity and a pool of around 50 volunteers, have reopened it until at least September 21, after which they hope for a nine-month tenancy.
Organiser Kath Dunbar said: “We’ve still got a big fight on our hands. They want us to pay the rental fees but we don’t know what the figures are at the moment.
“The council have also taken quite a large amount of books out.”
The group say the facility - open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays - is already popular and they have had support from ward councillors, Lewisham Deptford MP Joan Ruddock and surrounding schools.
Ms Dunbar said: “My children have grown up in this area. I know how difficult it is for parents and kids - there’s not really anywhere they can go where it doesn’t cost anything.
“I think that potentially it could be a very exciting place.
“To get it as far as we have done proves something about our commitment.”
The library, in New Cross Road, is appealing for book donations, particularly for its children’s section, along with unwanted mobile phones.
A tea party for those who donate £10 to the cause is also planned for September 17 To get in touch email newcrosspeopleslibrary@gmail.com or visit nxpl.org.uk
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